Apply for a new temporary resident visa from within Canada

Apply for a new temporary resident visa from within Canada
If you are currently a temporary resident in Canada with valid status (that is, a valid study or work permit), you can now apply for a new temporary resident visa to return to Canada before you leave.

You can apply in Canada if you are:

a legally admitted temporary resident (student or temporary foreign worker only) in Canada with a Canadian residential address;
your current temporary resident status is still valid, and your existing counterfoil is expired and/or was valid for only one entry; and
you require a new temporary resident visa to return to Canada in the near future.
If this does not apply to you, see our general instructions on How to Apply.

If this does apply to you, follow these steps:

1. Determine how you will apply
2. Get the application package
3. Pay your application fees
4. Submit your application
Processing

In order to ensure the timely processing of your application:
pay your fees a few days before you mail your application as financial institutions and credit card companies may require up to five business days before they validate your payment.
apply at least 2 months in advance of your planned departure from Canada in order to avoid disappointment.
complete the new 2D barcode forms online. Hand filled applications submitted to our office will result in delays and longer processing time (for more information, please see 2D barcode page).
Applications will be processed in the order they are received.
Processing times have not yet been established. Updates will be posted on the CIC website when available.
One of more of the following factors could delay the processing of your application:

incomplete applications;
medical exam required;
background or security checks required;
criminal record;
interview required;
verification of documents needed; or
other factors that complicate your case.
Using a representative

You do not need a representative to apply to visit or immigrate to Canada. Whether you use a representative or not is a personal choice.

For more information on representatives, see selecting an immigration representative.